Latest Melbourne News

ANZ today announced that ANZ Trustees will establish a memorial fund in honour of the late Rob Guest to help promising young performers kick-start their careers in musical theatre.

The ANZ Rob Guest Endowment will be set up and managed by ANZ Trustees with the aim of continuing Rob’s dedication to encouraging the development of those starting out in musical theatre.

The fund, announced at Mr Guest’s memorial service at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre today, will provide financial support and other opportunities for up-and-coming performers by:
• Offering scholarships for further study to help develop their skills and widen their experience, and
• Supporting their development from a business perspective through ANZ.

ANZ Chief Executive Officer, Australia, Brian Hartzer said ANZ, principle sponsor of the Australian production of Wicked, would make a significant start-up contribution to establish the fund. ANZ will provide financial and business advice to beneficiaries to help them manage their careers and reach personal goals.

The production of Wicked and its partners will also contribute to the fund.

Mr Hartzer said Mr Guest was an exceptional entertainer and his passing was a tragic loss to Australian and New Zealand theatre and to the production of Wicked.

“As well as giving great joy as an entertainer, Rob was an inspiration and mentor to many young performers starting out in their careers. This is a special opportunity to continue the theatrical legacy of such a distinguished performer,” Mr Hartzer said.

“We felt that the best way we could honour Rob would be to help him continue to inspire the young people in his profession.”

Members of the public can make a donation to the ANZ Rob Guest Endowment at any ANZ branch in Victoria or New South Wales or call ANZ Trustees on 1800 011 047. People will also be able to donate via other state branches in coming weeks.